Srinagar, Dec, 23:On the occasion of Kisan Diwas (National Farmers Day), the All India Coordinated Research Project (AICRP) on Biological Control, Division of Entomology, Faculty of Horticulture (FoH), SKUAST-Kashmir, reaffirmed its commitment to empowering farmers through sustainable and eco-friendly pest management practices.
Kisan Diwas, celebrated annually on December 23, honours the invaluable contribution of farmers to India’s economy and society. On this day, the University paid tribute to farmers whose relentless hard work feeds the nation and sustains life. Emphasising that farming is not merely a profession but a way of life passed down through generations, SKUAST-Kashmir highlighted its role in promoting biological control as a safe and natural approach to crop protection.
The University advocates the use of beneficial insects, bio-agents and bio-pesticides to manage pests without harming soil, water, human health or beneficial organisms. This approach helps reduce dependence on chemical pesticides, lowers production costs and ensures healthy crops and safe food.
In this context, the inaugural function of a 15-day training programme on “Mass Production of Biological Control Agents” under HADP-18: Minimisation of Pesticide Use in Agriculture was organised at Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-Kashmir), Shalimar.
The programme is being attended by farmers from various districts of the Kashmir Valley, representing diverse agro-ecological zones and cropping systems. The training is jointly organised by the Division of Entomology and the Division of Plant Pathology, Faculty of Horticulture. The inaugural function was graced by the Hon’ble Vice-Chancellor, SKUAST-Kashmir, Prof. (Dr.) Nazir Ahmad Ganai, as the Chief Guest. In his address, the Vice-Chancellor stressed the urgent need to minimise the indiscriminate use of chemical pesticides, citing their adverse effects on human health, the environment, soil biodiversity and ecological balance. He strongly advocated the adoption of bio-pesticides and biological control agents as safe, sustainable and environmentally sound alternatives for modern agriculture.
Reiterating the University’s resolve, he stated that farmers are the true heroes of the nation, and promoting natural and sustainable farming practices today is essential for a healthier and more prosperous tomorrow.
Comment List